The Plaid Horse March 2021 The Lifestyle Issue by The Plaid Horse

NORTH AMERICA’S HORSE SHOW MAGAZINE • PUBLISHED SINCE 2003 • MARCH 2021

The Lifestyle Issue

COVER STORY

Soundness Solutions

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2021 Show Schedule Fieldstone Spring Festival I & II

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Fieldstone Summer Showcase II & NEHJA Derby Finals

August 24 -28

Plymouth Rock Hunter Jumper Classic I & II

MHJ Finals

June 23 -27 & June 29 -July 3

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18 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

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The

MARCH PLAID HORSE

2021

The Lifestyle Issue 28

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

SPOTLIGHT

GEAR

If You Could Remember One Thing Every Time You Ride …

Stay Cool with Kerrits Your Guide to MIPS Helmets

THE PLAID HORSE COMMUNITY

LEGENDS

EQL by Kerrits: More Hoofprints, Less Footprints

VOICES

RIDERS

SPOTLIGHT

It Happens! With Nona Garson, Rob Jacobs, and Erynn Ballard

20 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

A Little Bit of Magic: Robin Greenwood

PHOTO GALLERY

HORSES

RIDERS

COVER STORY

It’s Not a Hobby, It’s a Lifestyle Dominique Mungin: It’s All About the Moments

EXPERT TAKE

Ask the Vet: Tips for Feeding a Picky Eater

Whiskey Roads Foxhounds & Camden Hunt Joint Meet

5 Strides with Javas Miss Jordan The Plaid Horse Questionnaire with Samantha Schaefer How EkiJoint and ACTIVet PRO LaserShower Can Support Your Horses

A warm welcome back to photographer Holly Casner, who shot The Plaid Horse cover story again this month after shooting for us back in 2014 (below).

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

Balmoral los angeles

Good Luck at Thermal 2021

PHOTOS © GRAND PIX PHOTOGRAPHY, SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY, IRENE POWLICK AND HOLLY CASNER

Traci Brooks 310-600-1967

BalmoralFarm.com

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Congratulates

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USEF Horse of the Year PHOTO: MIKE KEENER

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Embrace your love of learning

Listen to Traci & CB on #Plaidcast Episode 143, Presented by World Equestrian Center on iTunes or theplaidhorse.com/listen PHOTO © ALDEN CORRIGAN MEDIA

Photo © Alden Corrigan Media.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Good for Her, Not for Me I recently read Amy Poehler’s 2014 book Yes Please, in which she laments a common inability for women to say, “Good for her, not for me.” For her, this revelation was centered around all the advice she got for childbirth and caring for babies and how demanding people could be that she do it their way. Judgement, for me, takes two forms in today’s world. There is in-person judgment—the type that makes you cringe, look at your feet, and go off and burst into tears. And then there is online judgment. The trainwreck you know you shouldn’t look at, but you do. And then you admonish yourself both for looking and for what it says. The judgement from the people whose opinions you would never ask for. I don’t know which one is worse for me. When I’m at home and curled up, I would for sure say online judgement. But when I’m face to face with other people, in my body and in my lizard brain, in-person feels incomparably worse. The difference is the quantity. While you might have an upsetting in-person incident occasionally, the Internet is there to strike you 24/7. I think they can average out to being equally horrifying if you let the peanut gallery, whose opinions you wouldn’t even consider asking for in real life, into your headspace. I see how destructive our world has been for things that really should never be judged upon. How many people don’t feel

28 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

MTM Sandwich in the Adult Hunters at Thermal in 2020—the horse version of “good for her, not for me.”

“Instead of putting your energy into disagreements, invest that time into yourself, your family, and your horses.”

PHOTOS: SARA SHIER PHOTOGRAPHY

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

comfortable coming out to ride because of how others might perceive them in riding pants or who “belongs” in our sport (spoiler alert: the correct answer is everyone). If you are paid to hold someone to a standard, you should, and you should be firm about it. The industry is relying on you for that. Judges, course designers, and trainers you hire should be fair, yet tough and uncompromising. But for everyone else—fellow competitors, other trainers, or even other people in our own barns, we can all make a better effort to be good citizens of our sport. To say, “good for you, not for me,” when a friend might get blinged out riding pants, or buys a horse we might think would go better for us, or makes a Facebook post we don’t agree with, or rocks an extra 15 lbs in the show ring.

So, we sit here judging the following (including but not limited to): The people who show at WEF, the people who don’t show at WEF, who trains with this person or that person, the people who blanket their horses and don’t blanket their horses, and clip their horses and don’t clip their horses, and have children and don’t have children, and breastfeed and don’t breastfeed, and wear a dress to the horse show or wear sweatpants to the horse show, who are all made up and who don’t wear make-up, who enjoy jewelry and who don’t ... we could go on all day about others’ decisions and how they’re not right for us. But that is true. And it is okay. The next time you see something you don’t agree with on social media, you can scroll past without commenting. Instead of putting your energy into disagreements,

invest that time into yourself, your family, and your horses. Imagine how different the horse world—and the wider world, too—would look if we all agreed to do so, even just once a day. The next time you see anyone, but especially another woman, doing something you wouldn’t do, take a deep breath, and just try going about it the Amy Poehler way: Say to yourself, “Good for her, not for me.”

Piper Klemm, PHD TPH PUBLISHER

(Follow me on Instagram at @piperklemm)

Piper with Geoff Teall in Wellington, 2021. Standards and accountability should be expected from professionals judging, performing clinics, teaching and training.

30 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

PHOTO: EMILY RANDOLPH / RANDOLPH PR

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SPOTLIGHT

STAY COOL WITH KERRITS Beat the heat with Kerrits’ cool new line of show and schooling attire A little history here. Back in the dark ages, show attire consisted of heavy, lined wool jackets, pure cotton breeches and ratcatchers. Cotton’s lack of ability to absorb moisture meant riders ended their show day in sweaty, sticky clothes. (I know, not a pretty picture. But, the truth.) There were no technical fabrics, no cotton blends. Any rider from just a few short decades ago can remember literally peeling their breeches off after a show. Enter Kerri Kent. Three decades ago Kerri, an avid rider and windsurfer, founded Kerrits Performance Equestrian Apparel. Her experience with other outdoor sports familiarized her with technical fabrics, materials, and styles which she used to develop the innovative in-saddle line for riders. Kerrits’ core foundation is clothes that are comfortable in the saddle,

fit well, and move with the rider rather than restricting. In developing the line, Kerri helped revolutionize the sport, and made life in the saddle forever better. Kerrits is dedicated to creating inclusive products that are available to every rider regardless of size. All products are tested in the saddle by their employees, so each size from extra small to 2X is sure to fit many body types perfectly. This perfect fit, along with the stretchy exterior fabric, generally lined by a super soft interior, provides the ultimate in comfort. Kerrits first offering for riders was Performance Tights. At the time, no one else made riding tights. But that was only the beginning. Over the past four seasons Kerrits has added some “can’t live without” products that advance the goal of always keeping you comfortable and confident in the saddle.

32 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

If you live in your favorite jeans, now you can ride in them too. The Stretch Denim Knee Patch Breech features DriRelease® technology that wicks moisture away and dries quickly.

LOCATION PHOTOS: KRISTIN LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

Classy Backpacks covered in black bit chevrons keep you organized with room for your helmet, crop, laptop, water bottle and a spare pair of sneakers. The elegant fabric cleans up easily with a quick wipe and the shoulder strap is padded and adjustable for comfort.

The Affinity™ Show Collection, complete with a long-sleeved Show Shirt, both knee patch and full-seat breeches, and the feature-filled Aero Show Coat, keeps you cool in the saddle no matter how the summer heats up. Both the four-way stretch breeches and the shirt lower your temperature five degrees thanks to exclusive Ice Fil® technology that quickly converts sweat into cooling energy. The beautifully tailored Aero Show Coat features an open weave that allows superb air flow for maximum cooling, a zipper under the buttons so the jacket lies flat, and eyelets so the string for the number can run inside the jacket rather than tie around the outside. To top it all off this versatile, machine washable coat that can go from the dressage arena to a hunter class to a jump off is only $199! The Aero Show Coat is available in black, flint and navy; breeches come in sand, white, and black.

The paddock boots you’ve dreamed of are no longer a dream. Kerrits just made them reality! Featuring the Cascadia Waterproof Paddock Boot, the Element Insulated Paddock Boot, and the Woodstock Waterproof Barn Boot, the line is designed to combine stunning style with all-day comfort, functionality, and durability in and out of the saddle. Each features seam-sealed all leather, waterproof uppers and the K-Stride™ midsole which reduces fatigue while providing advanced stability. In addition all boots have the SpurSync™ molded heel which not only safely seats your spurs, but provides protection against scuffing.

Congratulations to Our Over 100 Ponies Sold or Leased in 2020!

PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY, SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY, THE BOOK, MACKENZIE SHUMAN, & GRACE SALMON

Stonewall Farm • Text: 920-889-0028 S TO N E WA L L P O N I E S@YA H O O.C O M • I XO N I A , W I S C O N S I N

Congratulations to Our Over 100 Ponies Sold or Leased in 2020!

PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY, SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY, THE BOOK, MACKENZIE SHUMAN, & GRACE SALMON

Stonewall Farm • Text: 920-889-0028 S TO N E WA L L P O N I E S@YA H O O.C O M • I XO N I A , W I S C O N S I N

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GEAR

Champion Revolve Ventair MIPS Helmet 4

toklat.com

YOUR GUIDE TO

MIPS HELMETS

Several companies are incorporating MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), an added safety technology that can reduce the risk of concussion 1

Available in Black or Navy. MSRP: $679.95

One K CCS with MIPS

This helmet combines the MIPS, low-friction-layer brain-protection-system that is designed to reduce strain to the brain, and a Custom Color System! Customize your One K MIPS to reflect your style with mix-and-match interchangeable parts. With so many color options, you can create a helmet that is truly one of a kind.

5 1

MSRP: $299.95 with CCS COLOR PIECES at $10.95–$17.95

Charles Owen MyPS

charlesowen.com

Incorporating MIPS technology into a stylish Charles Owen helmet, the My PS is unique in the industry as it offers three certifications to three international equestrian safety standards. The My PS gives riders a modern yet elegant look with a deep, comfortable fit. Ten ventilation slots, a removable headband and six-point leather-look harness help to tick all the boxes of a truly modern, innovative riding helmet. Also comes in a wide peak style. Available in regular and round fit sizes in black and navy. MSRP: $279-$302

MSRP: $159.00

tipperaryequestrian.com

This collection blends style and comfort with cutting edge technology—the MultiDirectional Impact Protection System (Mips®)—in a sophisticated selection of helmet styles. The Tipperary Retention System™, which allows for a customizable fit, is discretely integrated, providing additional security and comfort. The result is an elegant helmet appropriate for the show ring, complete with the technical features you’d expect in a contemporary helmet.

Traumavoid EQ3 Smooth Shell

Traumavoid’s EQ3 Smooth Shell helmet incorporates the MIPS Brain Protection System as well as a removable and washable Coolmax lining, comfortable design with great ventilation, smooth outer shell, and a harness made of durable PU leather that makes it easy to clean.

38 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

This equestrian helmet sets new benchmarks in terms of lightness, comfort for the rider and safety. For the first time ever, the sporty all-rounder uses the height-adjustable Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (Mips®), which provides additional protection against rotational forces in the event of a side or oblique impact and allows for optimum height and width adjustment for improved fit. The ergonomic helmet design with its low-cut helmet shell guarantees extra impact protection at the rear and has the ponytail cut-out, which makes the helmet considerably more comfortable for riders with long hair. With all the great features of the Exxential II, and the integration of MIPS, there’s no other helmet on the market like it.

6 Tipperary Equestrian Windsor ® Collection With Mips

traumavoid.com

Available in black or blue. MSRP: $179

Uvex Exxential II MIPS

uvex-equestrian-usa.com

onekhelmets.com

Based on the success and design of the Evolution Pearl, Champion has incorporated the MIPS Brain Protection System into this new helmet. The Revolve Ventair MIPS helmet offers a highly ventilated airflow system to ensure maximum comfort to the rider. This model features a superior synthetic leather finish with pearlized patent piping detail and contrast silver vent. It also benefits from a removable and replaceable crown comfort padded liner in breathable hi-tech microfiber, a four-point padded synthetic leather harness with rear lacing adjustment, and quick release buckle.

Available in Wide Brim with Rose Gold Trim, Smoked Chrome Trim, or Smoked Chrome Trim with Croco Top. Also available in Traditional Brim with Smoked Chrome Trim. MSRP: $329.99

Ul a Hydra ng Cream

For hands, neck & body

Wear it and be proud. The Free Spirit T-Shirt declares your love for horses. Soft as a horse’s muzzle 95% organic cotton (in black or white) forms the background for the Trisha S. (of Rusty Halo Studio) horse head design, printed with earth-friendly, water-based inks.

The Soft Breeze Dress—in a flowing style bedecked by equestrian details such as bridle stripes or paisley horses—is made of Modal, a semi-synthetic produced from beechwood tree pulp. The fabric is produced in a closed-loop system that emits fewer byproducts. While the fabric fulfills the mission of lightly treading this planet, the dress is a winning look for all body types, and can be adjusted to suit your personal style: sleeves can be narrowed or widened for a cap-sleeve look, the waist can be PHOTOS: cinchedTKTKTKTTKTKKTKT or loose.

SPOTLIGHT

MORE HOOFPRINTS, LESS FOOTPRINTS Casual horse-inspired style that’s easy on the environment Kerrits’ customers are devoted to the riding attire brand for its fit, function, innovation, value, and technical fabrics. Now, after 30 years of creating performance in-saddle attire, Kerrits has introduced the same great qualities in a line designed for life out of the saddle. Kerrits CEO Melissa Hubbard summed it up: “We wanted to create timeless styles ... and to use responsible fabrics to be more earth friendly. And we wanted to give back to our passion, the thing that unites us all: horses.” Inspired by the idea of incorporating equestrian style into everyday life, EQL employs artistic horse prints and details such as snaffle bit patterns throughout their casual wear. These fun, stylish, and comfortable clothes are designed for when you’re not in the saddle.

MORE HOOFPRINTS, LESS FOOTPRINT.

Featuring breathable, flexible, and beautiful fabrics that are responsibly sourced, EQL goes

beyond Kerrits’ in-saddle line of tights, breeches, shirts, and jackets. Equally versatile for work or play, each piece is designed to mix and match with the remainder of the collection. EQL’s brand mission is “to thoughtfully design and responsibly create clothes that let women unbridle their personal style ... and their power to help horses.” Helping horses equates to 1% of the brand’s proceeds being donated to support equine causes. Currently they go to Sound Equine Options, a horse rescue based in Oregon. An upcoming recipient will be Detroit Horsepower, a non-profit that brings horseback riding lessons to underserved communities in Detroit. Using recycled polyester or organic cotton and following BlueSign practices (which examine manufacturing processes from raw materials and energy inputs to water and air emissions outputs) allows EQL to place fewer footprints on mother earth.

LOCATION PHOTOS: KRISTIN LEE PHOTOGRAPHY & OUTLIVE CREATIVE

Create a layered look that transitions between seasons with the In Motion Jacket and In Motion Cropped Pant. They’re super-soft and super-stretchy, making it easier to break out of your leggings routine. Top with the Wrap it Up Scarf for a touch of elegance.

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

RIDERS

It Happens!

We all make mistakes. But horse people, as a group, aren’t always the best at handling them. So TPH reached out to some top riders to share their own show ring bloopers to prove, once and for all, that mistakes really do happen to the best of us! BY

RENNIE DYBALL

SAS PHOTOGRAPHY (JACOBS), & JUMP MEDIA (BALLARD)

PHOTOS:

Hear more It Happens moments on the #Plaidcast at theplaidhorse.com/listen

44 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

NONA GARSON I was in first place at the Hampton Classic Young Horse Championship on a 5-year-old named LaCongo. We were coming to the final jump on the course. In a split-second decision, I decided to try to save time by jumping the liverpool instead of the oxer. The horse had always been a solid competitor despite his young age, and I thought it would be within his talents to jump the water. Unfortunately, he came off the ground, spooked at the water beneath him, and put his legs into the bottom rails. I flopped off, didn’t win the class, and learned the following lesson: Discretion is the greater part of valor.”

ROB JACOBS

ERYNN BALLARD

A fear of mine when showing in the rain is not having enough pace—it is not uncommon to ride conservatively when showing in a downpour. You want to make sure your horse doesn’t slip or lose confidence, and the splashing as they canter around is just plain distracting. As I walked into the ring at the Duke “AA” Jump for the Children’s Benefit show in Raleigh, NC, I was determined not to make the mistake of allowing Heir Apparent to get behind my leg in the rain. I pick up the canter and catch a nice jump to a single headed towards the gate. After jump one, I say to myself, “Go straight, get the lead change, then step on the gas.” I am loving the feeling of cantering in the rain with some pace, so I get distracted and continue stepping on the gas. As I come out of the turn, I realize I am at the end of my stride and hope I am able to find some reasonable distance to the first line. Nope! I see a long distance and, at that point, I choose to squeeze harder. Heir Apparent is very scopey for his size so I thought I would take a chance. He left the ground, but on two or three legs; he flailed a front and hind leg. We land into the line crooked, I lost my reins, and I had to ask him to add out of the line. I finished the line laughing because this is an excellent example of how horses humble us and remind us how a rider may win one day and lose the next. This was a complete pilot error and I’m sure the score was a 50.”

The one thing you teach kids when they start to ride jumpers is never cross the timer before the tone. I was in the International Ring at Spruce Meadows, and I was so nervous that I wouldn’t get to the first jump in the 60 seconds (this was some time ago—it’s 45 seconds now) that I broke the timer in my warmup circle, then jumped clear. I had no idea that I actually had a stop and a lot of time faults.” ABOVE: Ballard won the Leading Lady Jumper Rider award, sponsored by Martha Jolicoeur of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, at WEF Premiere Week.

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

THE PLAID HORSE COMMUNITY

IF THERE WAS ONE THING YOU COULD REMEMBER EVERY SECOND WHILE RIDING and not need to be reminded by your trainer,

WHAT WOULD YOU CHOOSE?

We asked THE PLAID HORSE Adult Amateur Lounge on Facebook (come join us!) and got some fascinating replies ...

Look up! —JAMIE A. STINE

Stop pulling the inside rein —ALLISON ISKI DUX

Let go of his face! —PAIGE BLEVINS

Control the 2 things you can—pace and straightness. Let him do the rest. —PHYLLIS CARDONE BURLEY

Have FUN! —LOUISA M. LEGATO

Keep your pace through the turn.

Breathe! —ROBYN TIPTON

More pace —RACHEL GRAMMER

—COURTNEY CUMMINGS

MORE LEG

Love and appreciate this moment.

—KIRSTEN CRAWFORD

—ANNA DULIN

46 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

PHOTO: EMILY McNEILL

theplaidhorse.com/listen

WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO PODCASTS iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, Spotify

theplaidhorse.com/listen

WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO PODCASTS

LEGENDS

Robin Greenwood & Grand Central after their championship win in the 1974 Amateur Owner division at Devon.

magic

A Little Bit of

Robin Greenwood on the moments that made her career WORDS:

NINA FEDRIZZI

PEOPLE OFTEN THINK OF A LIFE’S WORK in vast swaths of time; a slow

march of days and weeks that, if you’re lucky, ultimately culminate in success. In reality, though, it’s more like a smattering of key moments: brilliant victories, unexpected tragedies, and perhaps even a few petrifying minutes of fear thrown in. Taken all together, these disparate paint splashes make up the full picture of a person’s story. Today, Robin Greenwood is one of the country’s most venerated pony trainers. Her business now, a seven-stall barn and boutique client base at Grand Central Ponies in Southern Pines, NC is exactly what she wants it to be. “I always carry a couple of my own ponies that I buy with the intent of showing and putting a record on them with the kids that ride with me,” she says. But before the famous ponies and the big wins, Greenwood was getting her own education at the horse shows.

50 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

One moment she’ll never forget is riding in the First Year Green Hunter Stake aboard her horse, Twentieth Century Limited. The place was the Washington International Horse Show; the year was 1975. “I remember, to this day, standing at the in-gate, and there were trees and bending lines everywhere,” said Greenwood, then in her early 20s. “You couldn’t even see the jumps. It was like this horrifying forest filled with goblins and gremlins. I just held onto the mane and went.” She wasn’t supposed to be riding in the professional class to begin with. Her trainer, Ronnie Mutch of Nimrod Farm, had been campaigning “Florida” in the First Year Green division up

PHOTO: ©PC FREUDY

to that point. But Mutch, who was known for his competitive nature, decided that his week at the Washington wasn’t going well. Although he and the then-indomitable Twentieth Century Limited had won the hack, they ended up fourth in their first class over fences, a placing that dismayed Mutch. “When Ronnie came out of the ring, he took off the riding jacket that my mother had just had made for him, and he stomped on it on the ground, and said, ‘I’m never wearing this coat again—it’s bad luck!’” Greenwood said. But he wasn’t done yet. “In the Stake class, Ronnie decided he was going to let the judges know how he felt. So, he put me on the horse.”

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

LEGENDS

Despite the formidable course and a class list that included the likes of Bernie Traurig and Royal Blue and Rodney Jenkins and Lost His Sock, Greenwood won the Stake; a round she calls the highlight of her riding career. “I’m sure the judges were like, ‘Oh, Ronnie’s sending us a message,’” Greenwood said. “‘Let’s send him one back!’”

BEGINNINGS

At 13, with a mostly self-taught resume, Greenwood volunteered to take over stall cleaning duties on the $500 grade horse she boarded at a local stable on Cape Cod, MA. A couple of years later, when the barn went up for sale, she and a 21-year-old barn friend took over management of the 20-stall facility themselves. Her father, excited his daughter was a budding entrepreneur, paid the $500 first month’s rent so Robin and her friend could go into business together. Though far from lucrative, the experience provided Greenwood with a skill set she’d call upon countless times in years to come: bathing, clipping, and braiding horses, and eventually, driving a trailer. She began attending rated shows in the Boston area, where, she says, she would “stop three times at the first jump—or fall off. It was one of the two.” With the help of her mother, the aspiring equestrian purchased her first serious horse from Olympic showjumper Jimmy Day in Canada. When the shipper showed up a few weeks later, he handed over the Thoroughbred, named Talisman, with a warning. “He said, ‘Be careful, this is the craziest horse I’ve ever been around!’” Greenwood says. The assessment proved accurate, and not long after, when some horse show friends offered to introduce her to Ronnie Mutch, Greenwood jumped at the chance. “I needed help. My mother, who was an extreme horse lover, and also an incredible enabler, was all for it,” said Greenwood, who began making the nearly four-hour drive to Nimrod Farm in Weston, Connecticut every week. The move, and the doors it opened, would alter her trajectory in the sport. “Ronnie was an amazing instructor, and he was especially good with particularly talented kids. When I arrived, I was a little frustrating,” said Greenwood, who, despite her years of show experience, was only allowed to compete in the Maiden, Novice, and Limit Equitation divisions. Years later, Mutch told her that, at Nimrod, they would joke about her hutzpah. “I could drive the trailer, body clip, and wrap and braid horses,” she says, “but I couldn’t ride them.”

RAILROAD BUSINESS

During the 1970s, Greenwood would establish her reputation on a series of mounts named after New York railway icons. The first of these was Jessica Fleischmann’s Grand Central, a horse that would become the namesake for Greenwood’s business. Even

52 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

FROM LEFT: Greenwood & Twentieth Century Limited at the 1976 National Horse Show in Madison Square Garden; Robin Greenwood.

today, the trainer is wistful when she speaks about the petite Thoroughbred with a big heart, often referring to him as “a little bit of magic.” “Grand Central might have been 15.3 on his tiptoes. He was very hard to keep weight on and grumpy in his stall,” Greenwood said. But from the time he was purchased, he was almost undefeated in the Second-Year Green hunter division for the rest of the year, and ended up second in the country. “I showed him in the amateurs, and some days were good, and some days weren’t, but the horse didn’t care. He was just always the same. I can still remember what his canter felt like,” she said. By the show season of 1974, Greenwood had been riding with Mutch for six years, but still actively struggled with her confidence. “I wasn’t a rider who thought I could just go in and do it,” she said. Grand Central helped to shift that perception, especially after she and the gelding won Amateur Champion at Devon. It was just one in a series of victories that would thrust the pair into the national spotlight. Unfortunately, their time together would prove all too short-lived. Grand Central was champion in the Working Hunters at the Cape Cod Hospital Horse Show, but he colicked in the truck on the way home to Connecticut. At that time, colic surgery was only offered at a handful of major universities. “Our vet tried to operate on him on the barn floor at Nimrod. He didn’t make it,” Greenwood said. “He was eight years old.”

PHOTOS, FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF ROBIN GREENWOOD; ©ALLIE CONRAD

“I remember, to this day, standing at the in-gate, and there were trees and bending lines everywhere. You couldn’t even see the jumps ... I just held onto the mane and went.” —ROBIN GREENWOOD, AT THE 1975 WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL HORSE SHOW

Were it not for the doors opened by Grand Central, Greenwood believes she would not have had the opportunity to own her next horse-of-a-lifetime, Twentieth Century Limited. “He was the best mover in the country, and anyone from that time would still tell you that,” she said. “We won the hack at Devon three years in a row, and two years in a row at the National Horse Show. I think he lost three hacks in the time that we owned him.” If Grand Central had helped to build Greenwood’s confidence, however, “Florida” reminded her how far she still had to go. “He was the most sensitive horse I had ever ridden,” she said. “He went in a rubber snaffle with no martingale. You really just thought what

you wanted to do. I struggled getting to know him, early on, and Ronnie actually wouldn’t let me ride him for a while.” The following year, however, the pair were back in action with a string of successes, including their Green Hunter Stake win at the Washington. Those were the heydays of the 1970s horse show circuit, when exhibitor’s parties included a seated dinner, drinks, a brass band, and dancing—and often roared on late into the evening. After one such weekend celebrating at the National Horse Show at Madison Square Garden, Greenwood returned home to Weston, where she was living at the time, and climbed into bed. At 6:25 a.m. on Monday, her phone rang. It was Mutch’s barn manager, and he had a message from his boss. “Ronnie says, if you want to ride, be here by 7 a.m.,” he told Greenwood, who didn’t stop to consider her options before tugging on her breeches and running out the door. In the days before Florida circuits, most trainers in the Northeast used the months of December through February to turn out their ‘A’-level string and bring along their young horses for sale. Over the next few months, it was 7-8 of these prospects that Greenwood would ride every day, unpaid, for up to six days a week. The experience changed her life forever. “I literally learned how to ride in that one winter,” she said, adding that the progress was evident when she returned to the circuit in March. “I was a totally different person.”

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LEGENDS

Greenwood is unashamed to admit that her first love is, and always will be, ponies: “Part of the appeal ... is that people tend to say ponies are brats.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Georgina Bloomberg

(Jetsetter) and Tory Grauer Ketchum (Espresso) at the 1993 Pennsylvania National Horse Show; Ada Catherine Hays & Center Field; Caroline Passarelli & Little Black Pearl; Erica Felder & Timeless; Greenwood and students at Pony Finals in 1989; Caroline Passarelli & Little Black Pearl.

PONY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

Despite years of success riding hunters and jumpers in the most prestigious rings in the country, Greenwood is unashamed to admit that her first love is, and will always be, ponies. “Part of the appeal to me is that people tend to say ponies are brats,” Greenwood said. “But I’ve stood at the in-gate at the Washington or Devon or the Meadowlands, explaining a course to a kid, and I’ve never, ever had a concern that that pony wasn’t going to go in and jump that course.” During her tenure running Grand Central Show Stables out of Old Salem Farm in the 1990s, Greenwood’s roster included tri-color-winning pony combinations with students such as Jessica Newman (Gayfield’s Blue Nile and Asia Minor), Tory Grauer Ketchum (Espresso and Unlock the Magic), and Emma and Georgina Bloomberg (Jetsetter, Casey Jones, and Kid You Not). In more recent years, she coached Caroline Passarelli to multiple national championships aboard Little Black Pearl. When it comes to training ponies, Greenwood says, what most coaches get wrong isn’t how they work with their animals, but how they communicate with their kids. “The simplest things you hear trainers say all the time—‘go forward,’ for instance—that’s a totally fine thing to say if [the child] understands what that means. But I listen to trainers when their kids come out of the ring, and they’ll say things like, ‘Why did you do that?’ To me,

54 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

it’s like, ‘Well, why would you ask that?’ “If the same thing keeps happening [in the ring] every day, well, maybe [it’s the words you’re using]. Maybe that’s on the trainer.” Years ago, at Nimrod, Greenwood learned the virtue of good communication the hard way. When Dr. George Yeaton sent three ponies to the farm to be broke and shown for sale while Mutch was away at Indoor Finals, Greenwood was instructed to fast-track “the prettier of the two grey ponies” in the group for a client that was coming to look at him the following week. In just a few days, Greenwood had the pony walking, trotting, and cantering under saddle, as well as jumping small jumps and swapping its lead. Overjoyed, she put him through his paces for Mutch when he returned, beaming with pride the whole time. When she looked up, and to her surprise, Ronnie wasn’t smiling. “I said, ‘What do you think? Isn’t he great?’” Greenwood says. Mutch replied, “‘Yes, yes, he’s great. But that’s the wrong grey pony.’” The grey pony Mutch had in mind, however, ended up being 15 hands, while Robin’s choice measured. And so, as the story goes, it all worked out for the best. In fact, it’s just one of many examples in Greenwood’s 50-plus years in the business that align along that common theme. Events may not always go the way that you expect them to, but with a little luck—a little bit of magic, maybe—you’ll end up right where you’re supposed to be.

PHOTOS: JAMES LESLIE PARKER (TOP LEFT); COURTESY OF ROBIN GREENWOOD

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VOICES

It’s Not a Hobby, It’s a Lifestyle I don’t care how avid an enthusiast someone is for their tennis hobby, it’s just not the same as being a rider WORDS:

PONYMOMAMMY

PHOTO:

GIANA TERRANOVA PHOTOGRAPHY

You know how when you meet someone new and you are trying to have small talk to feel out if this could be a potential friend, or if you should just keep moving? (Or, at least, remember how we used to do that, pre-Covid)? One of the questions that’s often asked is, “What do you do?” Now, that could mean, “What do you do for a living?” or “What do you do for fun?” Some people are fortunate enough that their career is also their passion, and so this question is rather easy. Me, I struggle with a good (or at least a succinct) answer. The real question is, “Who are you, and what are you all about?” I don’t work outside the home, which is a choice my husband and I made together and I am very grateful for the ability to make that choice. So who am I? I am a wife, daughter, sister, mother, writer, artist, and an equestrian. It’s this last bit, the equestrian, that is the hardest to explain to people outside the horse world. They view riding as a hobby, whereas we know it’s so much more than that. A hobby is something you enjoy. You likely make time for it, but if life gets busy, it’s easy to set it aside for a couple weeks, even months. You might have great enthusiasm for your hobby, but you could just as easily simply enjoy it. As an adult, I would consider the vast majority of sports to be hobbies. So when I answer someone with, “Well, most of the time I am running around like an octopus on roller skates, and also, I ride,” it kind of falls flat. I don’t care how

56 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

avid an enthusiast someone is for their tennis hobby, it’s just not the same. My husband is an excellent golfer. Golf is his escape from the real world and I love that he has that. He hasn’t played in ten weeks. Now, I certainly do not fault him for that—the weather has been gross on his days off, life makes other plans, etc. While I know he is itching to get back on the course, and he may find that his hiatus affects his game, his clubs will be just fine when he goes to play again. His golf clubs won’t be out of shape, the ball won’t hold a grudge, his tees won’t regress from where they were. And this is the fundamental difference for equestrians. Even assuming we board our horses and we are not responsible for feeding and cleaning stalls on a daily basis, if I was to not ride for ten weeks, I would be paying for the consequences of my actions for the next six months. Trust, connection, and fitness are easy to lose, but much harder to get back. I cannot set the pony in the back of the garage with the golf clubs until spring comes. For some, riding can be a hobby. Taking lessons once a week on a school horse falls into the hobby category. I would even go so far as to say that owning a horse or horses in full care/training can be a hobby. But, for the overwhelming majority of equestrians, it is very much a lifestyle, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. A lifestyle is all-encompassing. A lifestyle is something we make sacrifices to have, because not having it feels impossible. A lifestyle is a deep and enduring

passion. A lifestyle defines who we are at our core, and we will fight tooth and nail to protect our animals that very much make up part of our life. I gladly give up Louboutins for aluminum pony shoes. I have traded vacations for weekends spent in a camper at a horse show. I happily rewear breeches that are older than my pony, so that he gets what he needs. Being an equestrian is a lifestyle, because it is the thing that defines our life. When I look back over my life, the horses and ponies have been the constant more than anything else. For sure, my family is the highest priority, but the ponies are a VERY close second. For every moment in time that I look back on, either with fondness or sadness, I can tell you exactly who I was riding in that timeframe—exactly whose mane I would bury my nose in, exactly whose deep breaths could ease my mind. You see, a hobby is something with which you fill up time, and maybe add some well-roundedness to your life. I enjoy painting and writing. They are great ways for me to de-stress, but I can just as easily go six months without picking up a paintbrush or writing a thing and be just fine. With a hobby, there is no need to be the best. It is all about wanting to enjoy myself and relax. But a passion, a lifestyle, is something you cannot live without. It can be hard, or stressful, or painful, but the idea of giving it up is unthinkable. It fills your soul and makes you at peace with yourself. I cannot think of a better way to express what it means to be an equestrian.

HORSE SHOWS

Select Champions HITS Ocala Winter Classic IV Ocala, Florida

Desert Circuit IV Thermal, California

Ledges Winter Series Roscoe, Illinois

FEBRUARY 9-14, 2021

FEBRUARY 11-14, 2021

Amateur Owner Hunter 3’6”

High Child/Adult Jumper

Adult Equitation 2’3”

Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper

Large Junior Hunter 3’3” 16-17

Cascavel & Elle Moreno 0.65 m Jumper

Playful Banter & Kaila James Adult Jumper Medium 46 & Over 1.0 m

Quatar Z & Laura Szeremi YJC 7 Year Olds

Octavius SCF & David O’Brien

Concerto & Caroline Ingalls Rendezvous & Kathleen Burns

Smart Cover & Maya Lovdal

World Equestrian Center Winter Spectacular #6 Ocala, Florida FEBRUARY 10-14, 2021 Adult Equitation

Double Dutch & Madison Fankhauser

The Countess & Skyler Hendricks

Intermedia Children’s Equitation

Elliott & Katherine Corona

Children’s Hunter 14 & Under

5 Year Old Jumpers

Green Conformation Hunter

Vogue & Lily Nickel

Lord Gannicus ORF & Jenna Friedman

Puddle Jumper

1.20 m Jumper

Adult Jumper High 50 & Over

Record Year & Leslie Steele

So True & Tiffany Dybas

LOCATED IN NORTH SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Buttoned Up & Skyler Ward

Calvigo & Douglas Boyd

Mungin with her hunter, Reunion, left and below.

58 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

PHOTOS: ALEXIS D’AURIA (LEFT), SEL PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP RIGHT)

OMINIQUE MUNGIN IS the rare amateur who shows in Amateur-Owner hunters … and in the jumper ring … and in the equitation. “I have loved the equitation since I was on ponies,” says Mungin. “Equitation is really about specificity. As a rider, I feel really seen in this ring. In the jumpers, it is me against the clock— equitation feels like me against me. It appeals to my competitive side and I just think it is a blast.

Mungin counts herself lucky to have enjoyed a lifetime with horses. Her mother, Patty Peckham, is a hunter/jumper professional, while her father, Abraham Mungin, was a barn manager and groom. Together, with their business partner Molly Flaherty, they started Arcadia Farm in Westchester County, NY. “Some of the earliest pictures of me are riding both real and stuffed rocking horses in a full cow-girl ensemble,” she says. Mungin started out on the local circuits and AA shows in New York, progressed to compete at the national equitation finals throughout her junior years, and now shows primarily in the Amateur Owner Hunters. But those other two rings haven’t lost their appeal. “Originally, I rode my young hunter in the equitation as a way to practice for handy hunter courses,” she says. But after more than a year back in the equitation ring, “I think it’s fair to say that I just missed it. I am hoping to go to the Ariat finals this year.” Mungin has been back in the saddle for about three years after a 12-year break. Her main focus is her 6-year old gelding, Reunion, in the Amaetur Owner Hunters. “Hunters draw me in because they provide an opportunity to try to showcase the excellence in the jump of your horse and focus on a seamless trip,” says Mungin. “To me it is about making something that can be really difficult (like combating nerves, finding distances, and fluidity), look effortless. And in the jumpers, you take the skills you’ve learned in the other rings and apply them with a different tempo. The jumper ring pumps my adrenaline in a different way and is just plain fun.”

THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER While Mungin will share some show ring highlights only upon an editor’s polite insistence (see box), she prefers to note special memories over key placings. “I tend to remember the moments with special horses over the wins,” Mungin says. For example, years ago, I was super nervous to compete in the jumpers for the first time. My worries were unwarranted because my children’s jumper, Cricket (a.k.a. Imperial City) was a pro. On my way to my first triple-bar ever, I was pulling so hard that he trotted about a stride and a half out. My 12-year-old self grabbed the mane, hoped for the best, and sailed easily over the jump and through the rest of the course. He never held it against me or let it fluster him.” “I remember going to Pony Finals for the first, and only, time with my large green pony, Peachy Keen. I was so proud of how shiny he was, how he showed up confidently in the ring, and stood patiently for the model.” “I think about my retired equitation horse, Raz, nuzzling my hair in a quiet barn as I cried after my dad passed away.” “And I think about my current horse, Reunion, at his second show ever in Lake Placid. He curled up in his stall as he sleepily ate hay—proud of his 5-year-old self for conquering the adult hunters and self-assured enough to lay down in a new space.

PHOTOS: ANNE GITTENS (CENTER RIGHT); ALL OTHERS COURTESY DOMINIQUE MUNGIN

An even earlier ride TOP: Awards presentation with Added Value; CENTER RIGHT:

Riding Peter Pan; BOTTOM: Mungin on her first pony, Chipper.

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

RIDERS

“I tend to remember the moments with special horses over the wins.” —DOMINQUE MUNGIN

Mungin and her dad c. 1991

DOMINIQUE MUNGIN’S SHOW RING HIGHLIGHTS • Buttons and Bows Sportsmanship trophy at Pony Finals • 9th overall at Pony Finals • Zone 2 champion in the children’s hunters • 8th in the Winter Equestrian Equitation Championship in Wellington • 11th at the USEF Talent Search East • Multiple wins and championships on the AA circuit on the east coast • 11th in the Ariat Adult Medal Finals, 2020

LEFT: Mungin on her jumper, Imperial City; ABOVE: In the equitation ring on Cavalier; RIGHT: Mungin’s hunter, Reunion

Or how sweet he was at the Hampton Classic, in a torrential downpour, politely going around the course although it was a bit like riding through a lake.”

HOW OUR INDUSTRY CAN IMPROVE AND GROW The 32-year-old is currently based in Westchester, NY, and brings her thoughtful high standards to everything she does. She works full time for a tech company, building curriculum that focuses on diversity and inclusion. She is also part of the USHJA diversity committee, formed in 2020, which is a group of amateurs, professionals, and judges committed to advancing diversity and inclusion within the sport. “I think there have simply been very few consistently visible examples of non-white identifying people in the sport at the junior, amateur, or professional levels,” says Mungin. “We learned at the USHJA annual meeting that there are fewer than 80 black members out of more than 35,000. Only about 8 percent of our membership is non-white.” How can the horse world do better? For

60 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

starters, she suggests, the industry can get involved in the advocacy for immigration reform. “This is an industry that relies on a large percentage of immigrant labor to function. We are also an industry with an incredible amount of wealth and influence,” she says. “We should be using that influence to progress the laws, define a clear and timely path to citizenship for undocumented individuals, and seek out longer-term work visas for folks who want to work in the horse industry.” And at every level, Mungin adds, it’s time to welcome more people in. “We need to continue and amplify the conversations around bringing more people into the sport in general—and in particular, bringing a more diverse group of people to our industry at all levels. It’s important not to back down from conversations about diversity in the horse world because this is a chance to expand a sport that has previously been seen as exclusive in many ways.” “The technicality and beauty in our sport are amazing. Horses are amazing. We should seek to grow our sport and share it with as many people as we can.”

PHOTOS: SEL PHOTOGRAPHY (FAR RIGHT); ALL OTHERS COURTESY DOMINIQUE MUNGIN

EXPERT TAKE

ASK THE VET:

Tips for Feeding a Picky Eater Is your horse a picky eater? Here is a rundown of various causes for picky eating that you can work up with your veterinarian WORDS:

DR. HEATHER BEACH

62 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

DENTAL EXAM Horses will actually continue to eat in the presence of a lot of dental pathology. However, a thorough, sedated oral exam with a full mouth speculum and bright light is indicated in any case of poor appetite. Horses can fracture teeth relatively easily. Symptoms of a newly fractured tooth include reluctance to eat, chewing on one side of the mouth only, drooling, and dropping grain. Horses may prefer to eat hay only and may be reluctant to eat grain or vice versa in cases of dental pain. Other dental pathology that may be discovered with a thorough oral exam include periodontal disease (gum infections), loose teeth, or endodontic disease (cavities).

SYSTEMIC ILLNESS Any horse that is acutely not eating should have their temperature taken immediately and should have manure output noted. A horse with an elevated body temperature will feel sick and be off feed. A horse developing an impaction will have reduced manure output and decreased appetite. Often, other symptoms of colic do not appear with impaction-type colic until the impaction is very severe so paying careful attention to the early symptoms and seeking veterinary treatment early can help resolve an issue before it becomes a major problem. Horses that have more chronic

poor appetite should have a complete blood count (CBC) and Chemistry panel performed to look for other evidence of systemic illness. This bloodwork will provide the veterinarian with information about organ function (liver and kidney) and can potentially draw attention to more serious conditions like neoplasia (cancer) or other severe illnesses that are causing the horse to lose its appetite.

GASTROSCOPY Once dental pathology and systemic illness have been ruled out, a horse with chronic poor appetite should ideally have a gastroscopy performed. To perform a gastroscopy your horse will be fasted overnight (at least 12 hours). This enables the stomach to be empty of feed material so that the horse can be sedated and have a long flexible camera passed into the stomach to have a look around. Gastric ulcerations may be seen. There are two types of gastric ulcerations—squamous ulcers and glandular ulcers. The squamous ulcers occur in the main portion of the stomach and respond to acid-reducing medications like omeprazole (gastrogard). The glandular portion of the stomach extends deeper all the way to the opening of the small intestines. Ulcerations in this part of the stomach are often more serious and more difficult to heal. We often use a combination of medications including

PHOTO: ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY

EXPERT TAKE

vigilant horses may be so worried about watching over the herd that they do not take time to eat themselves. Some horses will only eat their hay well overnight when the barn is quiet and there is less commotion. It is important to make horses feel comfortable in their environment. Monitor your horse in his environment and pay attention to his facial expressions. If the horse appears stressed or worried more often than not, something is not working for him in his living arrangements. Some horses thrive when they can see other horses in the barn, others will do better with more privacy. Paying attention to how the individual horses in your barn behave will help you determine their preferences.

PALATABILITY

It is important to make horses feel comfortable in their environment. ... Some horses thrive when they can see other horses in the barn, others will do better with more privacy. omeprazole, misoprostil, and/or sucralfate to treat ulcerations in this part of the stomach. Oftentimes these cases can be refractory to treatment and require multiple rounds of medicating to heal. Without the gastroscopy we do not know which type of ulcers the horse has, nor how long we need to treat in order to resolve the issue. Sometimes on gastroscopy we may also find that the horse has a gastric impaction. Horses with gastric impaction will have a poor appetite because their stomach is chronically full with a hard food mat that never fully empties. Treatment for gastric impaction involves passing a nasogastric tube and administering Coca-Cola (diet and caffeine free, of course!). The acid in

64 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

the soda helps dissolve the food mat and is generally effective at resolving the issue. Finally, we can sometimes see evidence of neoplasia (cancer) on gastroscopy and may have the opportunity to take small biopsies of suspicious tissue through the gastroscope in order to make a definitive diagnosis.

BEHAVIORAL CAUSES Some horses will have behavioral reasons for turning down food. Stress in their environment may make them reluctant to eat. If they are in a group turnout situation, they may feel stressed that they will be chased off the food by a more aggressive horse. Conversely, some very

Finally, horses have a preference for different flavors and textures just as we do. The most important part of your horse’s diet is the forage or hay. Some horses—if they have access to pasture or if they have been fed very lush, second cut hay—will turn their nose up at a more coarse, first cut hay. This will usually resolve after a couple of days of “tough love” and not giving in to feeding them their preferred hay. Many horses will become over-conditioned on lush second cut hay, so it is important to not fall into the trap of believing that very lush hay is “needed” for all horses. Certainly very poor quality hay is not ideal, but usually when horses are under-conditioned it is due to limited feeding of hay, not the quality of the hay being fed. Most commercial diets formulated for horses have had palatability testing done, however, every horse is different and very picky or suspicious eaters may have an aversion to certain products. If your horse isn’t eating his grain, the first thing that should be tried is to remove all supplements and medications. Very suspicious eaters will not be able to tolerate supplements in their grain and there is no point in buying a supplement if your horse will not eat it. Make sure the feed tubs are thoroughly cleaned to remove any old supplement or medication residue. Finally, small, frequent meals can be helpful for very picky eaters or distracted eaters who need to gain more calories.

PHOTO: ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO GALLERY

Whiskey Roads Foxhounds & Camden Hunt Joint Meet 1

LEESVILLE, SC • JAN. 24, 2021

3 4

1 Everyone coming in after the Hunt 2 Joseph Hardiman MFH/Huntsman Whiskey Road Foxhounds 3 A Camden Hunt rider 4 Happy trails 5 Carol Pexa (left) and Krissy Greenleaf PHOTOS:

RICHERT-BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

HORSES

5 STRIDES WITH

JAVAS MISS JORDAN AN “INTERVIEW” WITH THE RECENT FEI GRAND PRIX WINNER (via her owner and rider, Nicky Galligan!)

ABOVE: Galligan and “Princess”

at the awards presentation with Desert International Horse Park CEO and president Steve Hankin

66 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

The 12-year-old chestnut Irish Sport Horse—better known as “Princess” to her people—won her first FEI Grand Prix at the Desert Circuit week II with her longtime partner.

You’ve been with Nicky since you were just 4 years old. What’s it like to be longtime partners and together in the Grand Prix ring now? We have a truly unique partnership— there’s so much trust and so much belief in each other. We spend every day together, we’ve been through a lot, traveled to a whole bunch of places and jumped in some really special arenas. It’s been a long, and twisty road to say the least, but I’m proud of us and what we’ve worked hard at for a long time to achieve. There’s been a lot of other people want to ride me, but it’s only ever been me and Nicky. I know how much he loves me and that’s a feeling like no other. Right from day one, he’s told me I’m special and he’s told me about our plans. I’m so excited to be finally doing what we have always dreamed of.

What’s your favorite part about being in the show ring?

I love having people watch me. I love hearing the crowd clap and cheer for me at the end of a clear round, and seemingly the faster I go, the louder they cheer. I’m totally fine with that. The bigger the jumps, and the more electric the atmosphere, the more I want to win. There’s no better feeling than having a big ribbon pinned to my bridle and my picture taken.

You don’t have the most traditional jumping style, but you keep winning! To what do you owe your great success? Heart, of course—I truly love what I do.

PHOTOS: ESI PHOTOGRAPHY

I HATE touching rails. I must admit, my humans do take wonderful care of me, they make sure I’m fit and strong. As special as those 90 seconds in the ring are, a lot of the success comes from the previous 90 days at home. I’m a little particular with who I choose to tolerate, but my team right now are everything I could ask for. I may be a Princess who gets anything she wants, but I would do anything for them as well.

What kinds of things do you enjoy doing at home when you’re not training? I spend A LOT of time outside. I eat the grass, I roll, I watch the cars go by. I’m often told I can be a little nosey. I have quite a relaxed lifestyle outside of the shows. I don’t jump much at home. I do lots of poles on the ground, which I enjoy … otherwise I get bored. I also swim a few times a week, which is even more fun than poles. I really enjoy going on trail rides, especially without a saddle.

If you could eat any human food, what would it be?

I’m not the most adventurous when it comes to trying new things. Why would you need to try new things when we have peppermints? There’s not a lot in this world I wouldn’t do for a soft, striped peppermint. March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

RIDERS

THE PLAID HORSE QUESTIONNAIRE WITH

SAMANTHA SCHAEFER RIDER STATUS: PROFESSIONAL

• HOME BASE: WESTMINSTER, MD, AND OCALA, FL • BARN: SHADOW RIDGE LLC • As a horsewoman, I am most proud of developing young horses. • As a horsewoman, I would most like to improve on public speaking. • I’d be lost without my spur bag in my tack trunk. And my monogrammed gloves in my ring bag. I leave them everywhere! • I think the biggest misconception about our sport is that riders aren’t athletes. • My best piece of advice for young riders is set goals and never give up.

• The part of riding I struggle most with is counting strides! • The part of riding I’m best at is trusting my feel and gut instinct. • I’m a sucker for a chestnut! Most of my best horses over the years have been chestnut! • On Mondays, you’ll find me at the barn labeling and organizing things for the next week OR on a boat! I love being on the water when I have free time. • I sometimes wish I had the time to learn how to play other sports. • I’m afraid of the dark!

MY MOTTO IS

Less is more, keep it simple 68 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

• The horse person I most admire is my mom because she helps makes all of my dreams a reality. • Something I say ten times a day is “Where are the scissors?” • One of my greatest show ring victories was USET Finals in 2011 as a junior and The National 2020 Leading Hunter Rider. • One of the best horse names I’ve ever heard is Over Dressed. • My absolute favorite show is Devon because the atmosphere and history are unlike anything else! PHOTOS: SHAWN McMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP); GEORGIE HAMMOND/PHELPS MEDIA GROUP

HORSES

BY THE NUMBERS:

PRITCHARD HILL

Get to know the conformation hunter who won 2020 USEF Horse of the Year ZIP CODE FOR PRITCHARD HILL VINEYARD— THE HORSE’S NAMESAKE

HEIGHT

16.0

94574 12

CHAMPIONSHIPS IN 2020

AGE

AGE OF HIS RIDER & TRAINER, CARLETON BROOKS

NINE 63

CHAMPIONSHIPS SO FAR IN 2021

THREE

NUMBER OF MODEL CLASSES WON

NUMBER OF SCHOOLING JUMPS HE TYPICALLY GETS

0-7

PHOTOS:IRENE PHOTO: TKTKTKTTKTKKTKT ELISE POWLICK

NUMBER OF JUMPER CLASSES HE’S DONE IN THE U.S.

TEN

Pick up a book & READ! Rider Keira Lancelle Bates reads SHOW STRIDES, BOOK 1: School Horses & Show Ponies.

Read all three!

A ARE YOU DES RI SHOW STER? D REA ading to

lf re o of yourse Email a phot @theplaidhorse.com ShowStrides with us online! or share esReader #ShowStrid

What readers are saying about SHOW STRIDES, BOOK 1 & 2: “I loved the messages the book portrayed about hard work, dedication and learning to handle disappointment. These concepts were woven in throughout a great story that had me reading from cover to cover. If there is a horse-crazy kid in your life, don’t think twice, buy it now!” —AMAZON REVIEWER ★★★★★

“CLEARLY WRITTEN BY PEOPLE WHO KNOW HORSES!” “My 10-year-old daughter started reading this series over the summer and hasn’t put it down. She is able to identify with a lot of the characters in the books and is excited for the 3rd book of the series to be available.” —AMAZON REVIEWER ★★★★★

“Great listen for rides to horseshows and lessons. This book is for serious, young riders, written by serious riders! Read by the author, which is cool.” —AMAZON REVIEWER ★★★★★

ALL 3 BOOKS AVAILABLE NOW ON AMAZON (Kindle & Audible too!)

PHOTO: KRISTINE LANCELLE

—AMAZON REVIEWER ★★★★★

HISTORIC COVERS

The Lifestyle Issue Through the Years

2006

2009

2010

2011

2014

2016

2017

2018

2019

HORSE SHOWS

Temperature Profile

The highs and lows at shows from coast to coast

WELLINGTON, FLORIDA

ROSCOE, ILLINOIS

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE (F)

100° 80° 60°

100°

75 57

76 59

79 62

82 66

86 71

85 72

80 65

76 60

80° 60°

40°

20°

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

70 58 44 28 13

33 17

48 37

74 62 52 40

46 30

32 17

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC SOURCE: USCLIMATEDATA.COM

The YOUNG HORSE Issue ADS & ARTICLES DUE APRIL 23

Contact piper@theplaidhorse.com for more info.

info@andrewryback.com • www.andrewryback.com • (224) 318-5445

74 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

COVER STORY

Soundness Solutions Jaime Del Collins brings a toolbox for horse care to the U.S. market

Casey Sorita, owner of Therapy Corner Store, and her assistant, Ross Alexander, with the laser and the supplement at the Desert International Horse Park.

FOR HORSE OWNERS, nothing is more important than the comfort and soundness of our animals. So Jaime Del Collins is thrilled to bring two cutting-edge therapeutic products to the market. The Multi Radiance Lasers and the EkiJoint Gold supplement are both backed by years of research, and Collins can speak to their effectiveness on a personal level as well—she’s used them with great success on her own show horses, in rehab cases … and on her own body. “I was doing thermal imaging and a veterinarian recommended that I get involved in cold laser therapy,” Collins tells The Plaid Horse. “I researched the science behind it and trusted my vet and then I used it on my personal show horses. I worked on my horse’s pain from body soreness to bone spurs. As riders, we are athletes just like our four-legged partners, and it is an amazing tool to manage body soreness as well. I even personally use it for strength and conditioning as well as the not-so-fun accidents we have when working around horses.”

WORDS:

PIPER KLEMM PHOTOS:

HOLLY CASNER

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

COVER STORY

Multi Radiance WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT the Multi Radiance Lasers, says Collins, is that they are the safest yet strongest brand of lasers on the market. A safety rating of a class 1 means there is no risk of hazard to the eyes for the applicator or the animal, and there is zero thermal effect on the tissue. This eliminates the risk of any possible burning, which can occur with class 3b and class 4 lasers. It’s a product that is scientifically validated with 38 peer reviewed published studies to date, and more in the pipeline. This is one of the many reasons that it was utilized at the last 3 World Equestrian Games. In 2018, it was the exclusive laser of choice to be used by all the equine vets and physiotherapists staff for the riders. “The ability to have a device that can literally fit in your back pocket to treat swelling, pain, inflammation, wound care, and more is simply amazing,” says Collins. “A safe yet strong laser to be used in the hands of clients treating their own animals puts my mind at ease. I personally know there are endless uses. It’s cordless, compact, lightweight, packs a long battery life (over six hours of use), and is durable enough to be stored in a tack trunk or padded bag. Plus, as a sales rep for over nine years, I really emphasize the training and protocol support that clients receive from me.” (Prior to selling the laser, she

“I love the laser because it works on a cellular level. It is able to address pain more significantly by going down to a deeper level. Arthritis is so common—more common than you would think—and this relieves pain instantly. It calms the horse’s mind, too. Immediately, they are more relaxed due to the endorphin releases they experience.” —ROSS ALEXANDER (above) Assistant to Casey Sorita

76 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

ACTIVet PRO LaserShower:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why laser therapy? Veterinarians are recommending our laser therapy because it’s a safe, fast, side effect-free way to relieve pain and accelerate healing for your animal.

Can it get too hot like Class IV lasers? The Super Pulsed lasers deliver light

“The laser provides pain relief on the spot. And being able to use it anytime, anywhere means less stress for horse and rider.”

Lasers

—JAIME DEL COLLINS

took an international equine acupuncture course to learn more about meridian and acupressure points, and she is certified in equine sports massage and the Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation technique.) “I give clients a holistic approach, and keep it simple,” adds Collins. “It’s very user-friendly and there are no prerequisites to learn the techniques.” Owners always want the most accelerated healing outcomes. Depending upon the type of injury, a series of treatments may be recommended. Having a laser in the barn eliminates the additional stress and risks that are often associated with hauling a horse in the trailer, not to mention the time involved. These lasers are validated not only to manage swelling, pain and inflammation—there is also a remarkable recovery factor. If the horses are lasered prior to training or competition, says Collins, the rate of recovery is boosted to 300% faster. Endurance can be boosted by 20% following recommended protocols as well. “The whole lactic acid buildup cycle doesn’t even occur,” she says. “I didn’t believe it when I first heard that statistic.

photons deep into the tissues. The pulse durations are so short, nanoseconds, that there is no heat sensation. Animals generally become very relaxed.

Are there any side effects or associated risks? The true super pulsed

cold laser has no side effects and very few contraindications.

How long does each treatment take? The typical treatment duration is 5-15 minutes depending on the size of the area involved and the condition being treated.

But I put it to the test when working at the racetrack. I would re-check my clients’ racehorses for body soreness at 24, 48, and 72 hours post-race, and I was astonished that there was no body soreness on them. It was as if they had never even breezed, let alone ran a race.” The goal of laser therapy is to deliver light energy units, in the form of photons, to damaged cells. The consensus of experts is that photons, absorbed by the cells through laser therapy, stimulate the mitochondria to accelerate the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). This biochemical increase in cell energy is used to help transform cells from a state of disease into a stable, healthy state and has the ability to repair itself. The Multi Radiance-patented laser technology is unique with four wavelengths: 660nm red, 470nm blue, 875 infrared laser, and 905 super pulsed laser. In addition to the four wavelengths, there is also magnetic technology built in to keep the cells optimized at receiving the energy to the tissue. There is a cascade response that occurs beneath

How often should my animal be treated? Acute conditions may be treated daily, particularly if they are accompanied by significant pain. Most chronic problems respond well when treatments are received 2-3 times per week for two weeks

tapering off to once a week, as your animal’s condition improves.

How many treatments does it take? For some acute conditions, 1-6 treatments may suffice. Those of a more chronic nature may require 10-12 treatments.

CONDITIONS TREATED by the Multi Radiance Lasers • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Releasing tight muscles Sprains & strains Managing arthritic pain Sore hooves, quarter cracks, and hoof growth Strength & conditioning Lymphatic drainage Chronic pain Hoof rot Tendon / ligament issues Joint Conditioning Fungal bacterial issues Dermatitis issues Proud flesh Pre-surgical analgesia Post-surgical trauma Back and muscle pain Wounds STAPH & MRSA Fractures and many more!

Conditions such as severe arthritis, navicular pain and ringbone may require ongoing periodic care to control inflammation and pain symptoms.

How long before the results are felt? You will typically notice improvement

in your animal’s pain symptoms right away. Laser works at the cellular level and is very effective for promoting rapid healing. Laser therapy helps eliminate your animal’s need for surgery or medications. Please consult with your veterinarian.

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

COVER STORY

the surface that ensures that the dosage of energy being delivered actually reaches the desired area of treatment. “Even those horses with chronic S.I. pain are a breeze to manage, and those ligaments are deep beneath the surface,” says Collins. “The laser is safe to use on all skin pigmentation types. The 470nm Blue mode is capable of mitigating bacterial, fungal and dermatitis issues such as proud flesh, STAPH/MRSA, and those pesky scratches cases that tend to happen at the worst of times while competing.” She adds that many barns are stocking the product for the whole team, as the benefits extend from horses to humans and even to dogs. “When the laser is incorporated into an equine program, trainers get better outcomes from their daily rides, muscle activation and growth is achieved without resistance, horses are happier. I stress the education of truly using it as much of a prevention tool as a rehabilitation tool. Everyone performs better when they feel better. Staff included. I provide tons of off-label uses for just about any aches and pains you can think of. We have the knowledge base to educate from our extensive application on the human side where this company originated its roots.” “Horses are not designed to be in stalls all the time— the longer they stay in stalls, the harder it is to relieve pain,” Collins notes. “The more cellular rejuvenation you can have, the faster the recovery they can have. They need recovery daily from concrete, sand, landing from jumps, and high levels of exercise. It takes at least 48 hours for a horse to recover after a big class and with the laser they can be back in top performance faster. We educate ourselves to stay ahead of the pain-chasing game. When in doubt, get the laser out. I personally am in love with the Rescue setting. It is amazing for acute injuries, with ability to target inflammation and pain before swelling sets in.”

“I put my horse, Cerafina, on EkiJoint Gold six months ago and she has never felt better. It is important to me that my seasoned Grand Prix horse has the support she needs. EkiJoint Gold has been a great addition to her care!” —Jessica Gleason

TESTIMONIALS

for Multi Radiance Lasers & EkiJoint Gold “Working with high-level equestrian and equine athletes, it’s important to get them back to competition in a timely fashion. ACTIVet PRO LaserShower is durable and extremely effective and I think it’s something everyone will want in their toolbox.” — SHARON CLASSEN, PT Equine physiotherapist

78 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

“Multi Radiance Medical adds a safe new therapy for my patients. I use it for a wide range of conditions, especially arthritis.” — STACY HUBER, DVM, Owner of the Oasis Animal Hospital

“We’re very impressed with the MR4 ACTIVet laser for equine physiotherapy.” — KENT ALLEN, DVM owner of Virginia Equine Imaging and the Director of Veterinary Services at the World Equestrian Games, 2010

TKTKTKTKT “I’ve never seen something be so effective in such a short amount of time. We had a horse who was bought for six figures and broke a month later. He was 8/10 lame for the next four years. The vets couldn’t pinpoint the problem. In three weeks on EkiJoint, he was back to 95% soundness and did flatwork and lead changes.” —CASEY SORITA (left) Owner of Therapy Corner Store

EkiJoint Gold Collagen +Plus Nutraceutical for cartilage repair and protection

NO MATTER WHAT condition your horse is in,

the FEI-approved supplement EkiJoint Gold can benefit them—now and in the long run. Even if your horse is in perfect health at the moment, says Collins, repetitive trauma is going to damage cartilage. Prevention is very important and trauma can start at a young age. EkiJoint is safe for all phases of breeding and you can start protecting the joints safely at any age. Dr. Jose Lopez Velarde is a lameness specialist veterinarian and a creator of the product. Dr. Velarde developed the supplement to focus on cartilage repair and

protection. Cartilage health and integrity is the lifeline of joint health. In simple terms, when the cartilage is disrupted, a process called synovitis begins. This is the first step of firing up arthritic changes. “Dr. Velarde knew from the most advanced medical studies in human medicine that cartilage health can be supported and repaired with all of these synergistic ingredients. Your equine investment will be protected as well,” says Collins. Dr. Velarde completed more than 15 years of research to create the most compete supplement possible for all aspects of joint and connective March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

COVER STORY

“When we reverse the inflammatory response, you can see quick, radical change.” —JAIME DEL COLLINS

tissue health. “When we reverse the negative inflammatory response, you can see a quick, radical change for the better,” Collins explains. “Whether a horse has grade 1 or grade 4 arthritis, there is inflammation produced in the synovial membrane. These negative enzymes are now being produced, and with this, the breakdown of cartilage begins. You can see this in a puffy fetlock—people want to just ice or poultice, but there is more beneath the surface to what is going on.” Collins, who serves as the global sales manager and exclusive U.S. distributor for EkiJoint, also notes that the company provides complimentary consults: “You can send over X-rays and ultrasounds—we can provide you a vet consult Eki Plan for dosage and outcome predictions, and recommended rehab plan for that particular horse.” The support is holistic, she adds, and the company takes into account and stresses the importance of biomechanics. “We want you to see the quickest changes

possible and know we have the best team in place to help you.” The use of EkiJoint, she adds, also reduces the need for joint injections. “With a small amount of patience, you will be helping your equine partner immensely. A steroid injection is a temporary Band-Aid to reduce the high inflammatory markers, and it does come with side effects. In a short period of time, the erosion is going to take a toll on that joint from the injection site. There is tons of research to show the negative effects that are inadvertently produced. With EkiJoint, you will see the positive changes in joint restoration and seamless healing of the connective tissue matrix in soft tissue injuries.” The company has also seen great changes in EPM horses. “We have so many clients with good feedback—people who were treating joint issues suddenly said their EPM horses were so much better. Collagen has a profound impact on the nervous system,”

MORE TESTIMONIALS “EkiJoint Gold has been a game changer. I have never felt such a tangible difference in my horse’s way of going from a joint supplement. My guy comes out even, loose, and feeling his best every day. Gone are the stiff or tight rides at the end of the week, or after a big jump school. I’ve replaced three other products with this!” —CARRIE ANTONELLI

“I come to all products with a healthy skepticism. As soon as I saw the difference a month made with Jaime’s toolbox, I was sold. Horses who were not able to have jobs or careers or families have had their lives made whole using EkiJoint and MultiLasers.” — CASEY SORITA, Owner of Therapy Corner Store

80 THE PLAID HORSE March 2021

PHOTO: ALDEN CORRIGAN MEDIA

says Collins. “Many hunters and jumpers can also pop splints quickly and with EkiJoint you can treat that right away.” Because EkiJoint has zero fillers and is made from all natural ingredients, it is competition legal. The product was designed to optimize the repair process of tendons, ligaments and joints, and these claims have been validated through rigorous clinical scientific research and validation with diagnostic comparisons that support the findings. To ensure maximum efficacy, it is a highly palatable powder and easy to feed. EkiJoint also comes with a money-back guarantee. If you upload day-one video data and show no results in 60 days, the company will refund your payment in full. “We thrive on being educators and advocates for the equine athlete.”

EkiJoint Gold

EXCELS AT ...

Learn more at www.SoundnessSolutions.com Use coupon code “Plaidhorse10%” for 10% off your EkiJoint purchase

EkiJoint INGREDIENTS “EkiJoint Gold has been fundamental to my horses’ recoveries over the past year. Not only has it helped to shorten the duration of their rehabilitations, it has also improved the overall appearance and well-being of every horse receiving it. Such positive results have even made my vet a believer. Injury is sometimes an unfortunate part of being an athlete, but with EkiJoint Gold I know that my horses are getting the best joint support possible.” —Quinn Partridge (left) of Thumbs Up Farm on Wonderland

Glucosamine Sulfate Reduces pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints Omega 3 Helps reduce the intensity of joint symptoms like morning stiffness, tenderness, swelling, and discomfort Chondroitin Sulfate Regenerates the cartilage structure Hydrolyzed Collagen Highest level of assimilation for long-term use in chronic joint disorders such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and connective tissue support & healing

Vitamin C A powerful antioxidant, it fights molecules that trigger inflammation Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Significantly reduces inflammation and inhibits the breakdown of cartilage Magnesium Magnesium supplementation enhances regeneration and reduces deposits of inflammatory cells Hyaluronic Acid Speeds up wound healing and helps relieve joint pain and prevent osteoarthritis

• Increasing synovial fluid • Managing ringbone • Reducing osteophytes and bone spurs • Improving soft tissue injuries • Improving navicular syndrome • Recover post surgery, especially for chip removal • Support for infectious arthritis • Arthritic conditions / DJD • Tendon & ligament support • Synovitis / Capsulitis • OCD support • Bleeder support • Sesamoiditis • Ulcer support • Acute or chronic tendonitis and tenosynovitis • Support for kissing spine

March 2021 THE PLAID HORSE

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